Look up! God is kind.

The changing seasons can help give us a heightened sense of awareness. The chilly air, the colorful leaves, and the smell and taste of spiced apple cider help to awaken our senses. Autumn gives me reason to pause and take in the many gifts God presents to us throughout the day.

I have been getting up most mornings to run in the quiet neighborhood behind my apartment complex. When I first step out into the chilly air, it is still pretty dark, with the subtle signs that a new day is on its way. The sky slowly changes from black to a deep navy blue. I turn a corner on my run that faces me east, and that is usually when I see the pink and purple brush strokes on the horizon. Eventually the sun will emerge in all her glory and I won’t feel so chilled as I finish my run.

Once the sun is up, you can really take in Indiana’s display of fall foliage. I spend the better part of my time walking around campus looking up as I pass under canopies of gold, orange, red, and green. I revel in the crunch of leaves under my feet. I feel a little extra thankful for my coat, my scarf, and a hot apple cider to keep me warm.

Sometimes I feel like the Universe says so much to us without saying a word, but we have to be open, we have to be mindful. So look up today! Appreciate the kindness God is showing you. Take a moment to count your blessings and may the changing seasons also bring you a change of heart.

-Emily